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North Country kids need places to play, says Canton resident

Posted 3/29/16

To the Editor: In the North Country, we are limited in things to do. An indoor play place would be so great. I commute one hour to Watertown or Cornwall, Canada occasionally to attend the McDonald …

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North Country kids need places to play, says Canton resident

Posted

To the Editor:

In the North Country, we are limited in things to do. An indoor play place would be so great.

I commute one hour to Watertown or Cornwall, Canada occasionally to attend the McDonald playplace. It would service children from 1-12 years of age. Children would get exercise and play in all weather conditions. The educational benefits of play are numerous. We have one of the highest obesity rates in the state.

The winter months can also be depressing. Getting out and having fun would improve life for all. I am seeking ideas from the community on how we could apply for a grant or raise funds to put one in the area. I was thinking near the Potsdam Walmart would be a nice location. We would need a heated building large enough for a play space, parent tables, a bathroom, and perhaps a track for biking, running, and jogging. We could even offer classes if the space allowed like zumba, dance, gymnastics, etc.

If we could afford it, we could expand to offer babysitting on certain evenings and we could offer parties. We would have to insure it, staff it, and clean it daily. I was thinking we could sell affordable family passes or share memberships like a gym.

I would estimate 100,000$ would need to be funded to start this program. I am looking for people to help me bring this to fruition. Please visit or like on Facebook Bring a Playplace to St. Lawrence County or contact me by email slaco29@gmail.com

Sarah Hopper

Canton